Indianapolis, Ind., Jun 22, 2009 / 23:57 pm
In a close election, members of the National Organization for Women (NOW) voted last weekend to elect Terry O’Neill as their new president, despite concerns that younger leadership may be necessary for the organization’s survival.
O’Neill, 56, is an attorney who served as NOW’s vice president for membership from 2001 to 2005. In her campaign, she said she would focus on grassroots organizing and membership recruitment as the pro-abortion group struggles to add new members.
“The press releases, the media exposure, invitations to the White House -- these are excellent things, but they're not enough,” she said. “It's going to take well-organized, grassroots movement to advance our agenda.”
O’Neill, who will take office on July 21, describes herself as “honored and eager” to take over leadership of the organization. However, statements from her opponent’s campaign reveal concerns about the age and relevance of NOW as a force in the modern world.
Running against O’Neill was Latifa Lyles, former Vice President of NOW who also has a background in grassroots organizing. Support for the two candidates was narrowly divided.